The Hennessy - 5 Day Declarations

19 of the original 46 stand their ground for the Hennessy Gold Cup. The 19 left in are:

Neptune Collonges (33/1)
Joncol (14/1)
Planet Of Sound (14/1)
Sarando (14/1)
Aiteen Thirtythree (13/2)
Blazing Bailey (40/1)
Great Endeavour (8/1)
Beshabar (14/1)
Wayward Prince (10/1)
Carruthers (25/1)
Muirhead (40/1)
Michel Le Bon (8/1)
The Giant Bolster (20/1)
Wymott (8/1)
Fair Along (40/1)
Balthazar King (40/1)
Tullamore Dew (40/1)
Billie Magern (33/1)
Qhilimar (40/1)

All 8 horse that made it onto my shortlist have been left in the field, so some more aggressive culling is now required to narrow it down further.

Planet Of Sound - If Phillip Hobbs has got him spot on for his reappearance then I can certainly see him going close. This has been his target for a while and he has had a breathing operation since choking in the King George. I think he could run a nice race but I'm not convinced he's good enough to win this off a mark of 158.

Sarando - Was something of a surprise package at Aintree but I was impressed with his return. He seems to be improving nicely but he finds himself 4th in the weights. You have to ask yourself whether he is up to that sort of level.

Aiteen Thirtythree - The big news is that Ruby Walsh is declared to ride. He has shortened up considerably as a result from a general 8/1 yesterday into around a 5/1 shot, and clear favourite. Coral are still going 13/2 and I think that is a fair price because I think Ruby riding is a massive boost for his chances. I still doubt whether he can dominate the race, and how he will fare if he isn't able to, but I was impressed with his reappearance and has been laid out for the race. Stable confidence is sky high and he must be one for the reduced list.

Beshabar - This has been his target for some time but he is being prepared for the Grand national in April. He looks a proper stayer and I think a few might be too quick for him in this. He also improves for racing and I suspect he might be a little rusty first time up.

Wayward Prince - Another dour stayer but with a little more class. He will appreciate the trip and the ground and I can see him running a big race. My concern is that he might get outpaced when the pace quickens. He was struggling from a fair way out in the RSA but just stayed on best of all. I also doubt whether he is 6lbs superior to Wymott, who beat him when they met over hurdles.

Michel Le Bon - The second Nicholls runner who will presumably have the assistance of Daryl Jacob. It seems clear that Aiteen Thirtythree is their primary hope and Ruby rarely chooses the wrong one, assuming that he had the choice in the first place. For that reason he is left out.

The Giant Bolster - Clearly has jumping frailties but I think he could run a huge race with a clear round. Has good form over shorter but has always shaped like the step up to 3m will suit. If he completes then I think he could be right in the mix. However, his jumping will be put under pressure in this and I just wonder whether it will stand up to the test.

Wymott - Similar in profile to Wayward Prince, except for disappointing in the RSA. He was struggling right from the off so I feel confident that the run can be ignored. The one concern is who will ride. Jason Maguire has ridden him in all 11 starts, but his lowest riding weight in the last 12 months is 10-5 and he will need to do 10-2 here. That aside I think he has an excellent chance.

The three for me at this stage are Aiteen Thirtythree, The Giant Bolster and Wymott, with an honourable mention to Wayward Prince. Both Aiteen Thirtythree and Wymott are best priced with Coral at 13/2 and 8/1 respectively. I would not expect those prices to last too long so it might be best to take them while they are around. The Giant Bolster is a general 20/1 shot.

An Early Look At The Hennessy Gold Cup

The Hennessy Gold Cup is one of the most prestigious races of the season. It usually attracts a strong field of established chasers and improving second season types making a thoroughly competitive race. This year's renewal looks no different and is sure to be as fascinating as ever. 27 are currently engaged, but a good few are expected to come out when the declarations are made early next week. However, with these big runner handicaps it pays to have a good handle on the race early so that you are ready to take advantage of any opportunities that may arise. I advise that you do the same, but I will not be getting involved until the declarations are known. You might miss out on some of the value but at least you can be fairly sure that you will get a run for your money.

The going is currently good, good to soft in places. The forecast for the week is dry with the chance of a light shower on Tuesday but the Clerk of the Course is not expecting the going to change.

The Field:

Neptune Collonges (33/1) - My fancy last year but was brought down early on. He heads the weights, and is likely to remain in the field, with young Harry Derham set to take the mount. He is now 10 and this looks a stiff ask off a mark of 168. Could run a decent race because he will jump and stay. Will handle good but would prefer softer.

Diamond Harry (20/1) - Will almost certainly miss the race after running in the Betfair Chase.

Weird Al (16/1) - Will almost certainly miss the race after running in the Betfair Chase.

Wishfull Thinking (28/1) - Must be a doubtful runner with a drop back to 2m, rather than a step up to 3m2f, on the cards.

Joncol (14/1) - Considered a proper mud lark and has yet to encounter anything better than soft in 12 starts and 2 Points. His participation might well be in doubt with the current forecast. A decent animal in Ireland but has yet to race over here. He has a big task on his hands off of 161 and there must be a few better handicapped down the bottom. Ground is a major concern.

Time For Rupert (20/1) - Will almost certainly miss the race after running in the Betfair Chase.

Planet Of Sound (20/1) - Winner of a (weak) Grade 1 at Punchestown in 2010 and thought of as a potential Gold Cup horse. Only ran twice last season when well beaten in both the Betfair Chase and King George. Runs here of 158 and won the Haldon Gold Cup off of 152 in 2009. This is a different kettle of fish but he will like the ground and if he retains his ability then he has a chance. Hobbs will need to have him cherry ripe on his first run since January.

Quinz (33/1) - Progressive last year and took the Racing Post Chase in good style. Connections then tried him in the National to take advantage of a favourable handicap mark but he broke a blood vessel and was pulled up. Ran poorly on his reappearance when never getting going at all and was pulled up again. Still on a mark of 153 and he might find it tough unless he can find his best form, and probably improve again.

Sarando (16/1) - Went down by a 1/4 length at Aintree to Quito De la Roque. That rival has since done the form no harm winning Grade 1s at Punchestown and Down Royal. He is now rated 169. Sarando runs here off of 153 (149 plus a 4lb penalty) and on the bare form he would have a decent chance. Furthermore, his reappearance at Carlisle was impressive as he put a couple of decent sorts to the sword and won as he liked. Clearly handles decent ground and is an improving sort.

Aiteen Thirtythree (8/1) - The big talking horse in the race with Nicholls putting this forward as a target virtually before he had jumped a fence. His trainer has already backed him for the race at 33/1 last year and confidence still appears to be strong. Wide margin winner of two novice events at the course before disappointing in the RSA when reportedly unsuited by the undulating track. His reappearance behind Somersby was pleasing enough over an inadequate trip and he is sure to improve for that. Has run well on good but just get the feeling he would prefer a bit of cut. Has performed best when allowed to dominate from the front and I just wonder whether he will be able to do that here. The services of Ruby Walsh will be a big help to his chances.

Blazing Bailey (50/1) - A former high class hurdler who finally made his mark over fences last season with wins at Cheltenham and Ffos Las. Since then his form has tailed off a little when well beaten at the Festival and pulled up in the Scottish National. Possibly has enough on his plate running of 151.

Great Endeavour (8/1) - Impressive winner of the Paddy Power Gold Cup and is officially 6lbs well in here. Connections have expressed concern over his ability to stay the trip and he has yet to win over 3m. He has shown his best form at Cheltenham but does enjoy good ground.

Hey Big Spender (40/1) - Slowly coming back down the weights and won off this mark at Wetherby in February. That was far less competitive than this and others are preferred. Fell in the race last year when well beaten.

Beshabar (14/1) - A dour stayer who finished 2nd in the National Hunt Chase and then won the Scottish Grand National, both over 4m. He has stamina in abundance and likes good ground. Up 4lbs in the weights since his win at Ayr which doesn't look insurmountable. This has been his target for a while and he will certainly be galloping at the death. Might just require a more extreme test than this.

Wayward Prince (12/1) - Stayed on powerfully up the Cheltenham hill to go down by just a length in the RSA. Then ran poorly when over the top at Aintree behind Quito De La Roque and Sarando. Runs well on good ground and has stamina in abundance. A smart horse for whom a mark of 150 does not look insurmountable.

Carruthers (25/1) - A game front runner who appreciates cut. Unlikely he will be able to dominate in this race and the ground is unlikely to be in his favour either. Jumps and stays well but others might just have more pace. Is falling down the handicap and is 10lbs lower than when a 20 length 6th last year.

Michel Le Bon (10/1) - One of the most interesting runners in the race and the subject of strong antepost support. Rated 140 over hurdles and has just one chase start to his name back in 2009, when running away with the Grade 2 3m Novice Chase at this meeting to win by 60 lengths. Immediately rated 146 and he runs off that here. He has clearly had his problems and his fitness must be taken on trust but if anybody can get him right for the day then Nicholls is the man. Reportedly was slow to learn when first introduced to fences and his lack of experience in such a competitive race is a concern. Could be smart though.

Muirhead (40/1) - Easily won the Munster National back in October off 132 but raised to 146 here. He was a smart hurdler (rated 158 at his peak) so that hefty rise might be within his reach. Disappointed at Ascot last time but never really got involved and others might just have his measure.

The Giant Bolster (20/1) - Well fancied and tipped by Pricewise for the Paddy Power Gold Cup but got no further than the 1st fence. Has now failed to complete in 4 of his 6 chase starts, but has won on both other occasions. Will be race fit after a hurdles spin before Cheltenham and if his jumping holds he definitely has a chance. The slower pace might help in that regard and he didn't appear short on stamina when staying on best over 2m5f at Cheltenham last January.

Wymott (8/1) - Won his first three chase starts well enough without ever setting the world alight but was pulled up in the RSA last time. He was found to have a small fracture and that run should be ignored. Handily weighted here off of 144 and it would be disappointing if he were not able to better that in time. This has been his target and he must be respected.

Fair Along (50/1) - A game little horse who finished 2nd when attempting a hatrick of West Yorkshire Hurdles at Wetherby last month. Since well beaten in a handicap chase at Cheltenham and the hurly burly of this race might be too much for him.

Balthazar King (40/1) - Progressive last year but pulled up in the Bet365 Gold Cup. Returned with a win at Cheltenham but well beaten the last twice. Will need to improve to figure here. His best form has come in small fields when he has been allowed to dominate from the front. Unlikely to enjoy that luxury in this.

Tullamore Dew (50/1) - 3rd behind Divers and Quantitativeeasing in the Centenary Novices Handicap Chase at the Festival over 2m5f. Decent return over hurdles but fell in the Paddy Power when in rear. Yet to prove his stamina for this trip.

Billie Magern (33/1) - A few pounds wrong at the weights as things stand but ran 5th in the Paddy Power, shaping as if a return to 3m would be in his favour. Will need a career best but not beyond the realms of possibility. Handles quick ground well.

Qhilimar (40/1) - A winner at Newton Abbot and 2nd at Carlisle already this season but this is much tougher. Up to a career high mark of 137 and 5lbs wrong at the weights makes this a big ask.

Vino Griego (66/1) - A 2nd season Novice who was 55 lengths behind Grand Crus at Cheltenham earlier in the month. Yet to try anything further than 2m5f but to will need to bring about significant improvement for him to figure here from 9lbs out of the handicap.

Neptune Equester (66/1) - A thorough stayer who has been on the go all summer. Trip and ground will not be a problem, but the big question is whether he is good enough. Nearly a stone out of the handicap and will have to improve out of all recognition to figure.

Shortlist:

Whilst it may not be original I think it is worryingly easy to cross out quite a few in the field. The horses that I am left with are generally those nearer the head of the market. The one I would be keen to oppose is Great Endeavour. This was clearly not the plan for him and the trip must be a major concern. The Pipe stable completed the Paddy Power/Hennessy double back in 2004 with Celestial Halo but I do not think it will happen again this year.

So off the 27 currently engaged my 8 for the shortlist are as follows:

Planet Of Sound

Sarando

Aiteen Thirtythree

Beshabar

Wayward Prince

Michel Le Bon

The Giant Bolster

Wymott

They are all no bigger than 20/1 so hardly any shocks predicted. I would be surprised if anything from lower down the market could challenge. My major concern is that it all seems far to obvious. There are bigger priced horses who might run into a place but nothing that looks like it might be able to win to me. When an outsider wins I will be made to look very foolish indeed. Historically, the race has fallen to a well fancied horse and since the turn of the century the SPs have been; 6/1, 11/4, 25/1 (Big Buck's 5/1 might well have won but unseated at the last), 5/1, 10/1, 13/2, 9/4, 5/1, 16/1, 14/1, 7/1. Rarely does the race fall to an unfancied horse so concentrating on the top of the market appears a sensible policy.

The King Returns In Style

Last season was seen as something of a changing of the guard in the staying chase division with Kauto Star losing his King George crown to Long Run, and that same rival taking the Gold Cup in March, breaking the stranglehold of Kauto Star, Denman and Imperial Commander. It was assumed that Long Run would go on to dominate for a few seasons to come, and that the old brigade would gradually fall into retirement with the memories of their great performances from yesteryear still fresh in the mind. 

After brave performances in defeat in the King George and the Gold Cup, and a disappointing effort at Punchestown, the old warrior Kauto Star had a few questions to answer. According to owner Clive Smith his racing future depended on his performance this afternoon. Another lifeless display would have seen the curtain drawn on a quite brilliant career. Both Smith, and trainer Paul Nicholls had issued positive bulletins on the well-being of their charge and you could sense that they felt a big performance was in the offing. That said there was a degree of caution exercised because Kauto Star has become 'public property', and many had called for his retirement. It would have been foolish to start talking of victory with so much at stake, but there were positive noises that a good run was hoped for, if not expected.

Since he landed on these shores, 7 years ago, he had never started at bigger than 5/1 and had only failed to head the market on two occasions. Nevertheless, the public's dedicated belief in their champion was waning. The new kid on the block, Long Run, was the market leader, with Diamond Harry second best, and the great Kauto Star only third choice of the punters. This was evidence of the growing acceptance that his time had been and gone. His older legs seemed unable to cope with the youthful challenge to his titles. Last season he had fallen from his lofty perch, but his will could never be questioned. He seemed as determined as ever but the brilliant ability of old seemed to be absent.

And so, his seasonal reappearance in the Betfair Chase was something of a career defining moment. Another lacklustre display and his career would be confined to the history books. The public felt that victory was beyond him, and even I, his greatest fan, was uncertain that he could manage the historic triumph that we all hoped for, but could never have expected. The opposition was formidable with the aforementioned Long Run, Hennessy winner Diamond Harry, and promising young chasers Weird Al and Time For Rupert all featuring. This would be a true test to whether the old horse still had petrol left in the tank.

Ruby Walsh set off in determined fashion right from flag fall, with Kauto jumping spectacularly well. He travelled powerfully throughout and was hard on the steel coming round the home turn. You got the feeling that everything else had been flat to the boards from some way out. Time For Rupert had already dropped off, Diamond Harry was still on the premises but was going quicker than he would have liked, Long Run was hard at work in 3rd, with  and Pure Faith had already been pulled up. The similarities with the Gold Cup were all to striking; Kauto Star travelling well in front, looking like the winner, with Long Run hard at work in behind. Entering the home straight Ruby asked Kauto to lengthen and the response was instant. He quickly dropped Diamond Harry, who started to pay the price for trying to lay up on the lead. Long Run kept staying on at the one pace but the race looked Kauto's to lose. He was a little fiddly at the second last, the one minor blemish in an otherwise foot-perfect jumping display, but a terrific leap at the last sealed the race. And, when Ruby got serious, he really quickened away smartly to win by 8 lengths, suggesting there was a little left in the tank

His reputation meant that this result could never be considered a shock; his remarkable record speaks for itself, and a return to form was never out of the question, just considered unlikely. But nobody expected him to win, and certainly nobody expected him to win in the manner that he did. Everyone had hoped that he could produce a good round and, most importantly, come back safe and sound, but not even his connections could have envisaged a display of such relentless galloping and fluent jumping. He had them at it from a long way out. Remarkably he broke the course record having forced the pace right from the start.

Jockey Ruby Walsh, trainer Paul Nicholls and owner Clive Smith were ecstatic, and rightly so. They had never lost faith in the horse, and had bravely resisted, and even ridiculed, calls for retirement. This victory was full justification for their belief in their horse and a right reward for them sticking to their guns. Before a similar scenario happens again it must be remembered what he has contributed to the game since the first retirement calls began. They began after he fell in the 2010 Gold Cup, and since then he has won the Grade 1 JN Wine Champion Chase, finished 3rd in the King George, and 3rd in the Gold Cup (this terrific race would have been nothing without Kauto Star and Denman battling it out), and now won the Grade 1 Betfair Chase. It will be to the benefit of all if we can accept that his connections have the very best interests of the horse at heart. I sincerely hope that all those calling for retirement are eating a generous portion of humble pie this evening.

My one regret is that I foolishly decided to stay at University and not make the 6 hour round trip to Haydock Park. How and why this decision was reached I will never know. If I could turn back the clock 12 hours then I would do so in a flash. 3 hours of anticipation on the way there, and three hours of unbridled delight on the way home would have been a minute price to pay for being there to witness one of the great moments in national hunt racing.

The season of 2010/11 was supposed to be the changing of the guard. But could it be that 2011/12 sees the return of the old brigade? Kauto Star looked as good as ever today, and his old rival and next-door neighbour Denman is booked in for his return in the Lexus Chase over Christmas. Whether Kauto can keep it up as all eyes turn to Kempton on Boxing Day is a different matter. But, thoughts on the future are best left for another day, because this was a performance all about the present. A former champion, who was down but not quite out, returning right back to his very best, to take the Betfair Chase in impressive style from an excellent field of young rivals. A 5th King George on December 26th? Now that really would be some story. 

A terrific racehorse and a terrific performance.

Replay

The King Returns - Betfair Chase

Flat racing has its great champions who star for one or two short seasons, but rarely can the summer game produce a horse that is adopted into the very hearts of the racing public. Frankel may be an exception to this rule, but it is more often the hurdlers and steeplechasers, who light up the long dark winter months, who gradually find their way into our affections. Arkle, Red Rum, Desert Orchid are all legends of the sport, and in recent seasons there is another horse worthy of joining that illustrious list. That horse is Kauto Star. 

Kauto Star made his British debut in December 2004, and in 7 subsequent seasons has won pretty much every major prize going. More importantly, he has also won the adoration of the racing public that is reserved for only the very best. Kauto Star is the first horse to win 4 straight King Georges, the first horse to regain the Gold Cup, a 3 time winner of the Betfair Chase and a dual winner of the Tingle Creek over 2m. He has 14 Grade 1 victories to his name. The opposition this weekend have just 6 between them. There can be no doubt that this is one of the very best. His longevity (Long Run was not even born when Kauto Star made his British debut) and his consistency allied to a phenomenal talent make him the undisputed horse of the century.

As is so often the case in sport, his career has been defined by a great rivalry. It is the rare occasions when two fine athletes grace one era that the greatest heights are reached. Ali/Frazier and more recently Federer/Nadal would be examples. In our sport, and in this era, we have Kauto Star and Denman. Their names are set to go down in history as two of the finest to have ever graced the turf. Without one another, each would have an extra Gold Cup to their name, but their rivalry, fought out from neighbouring stables at Ditcheat, ensures that they will endure forever more.

The Betfair Chase at Haydock tomorrow looks a stellar race on paper. As well as the return of Kauto Star, the reigning Gold Cup and King George champion Long Run, the reigning Hennessy Gold Cup winner Diamond Harry and the 1st and 2nd from the Charlie Hall Weird Al and Time For Rupert are all set to go to post in a fascinating renewal. 

Diamond Harry - Unbeaten in 5 seasonal reappearances and undoubtedly best when fresh. Took the Hennessy Gold Cup nearly 12 months ago and has not been seen since. He missed the Charlie Hall after getting cast in his box but that might be a blessing in disguise here. Would possibly prefer a little more cut than he is likely to enjoy.

Kauto Star - A legend of the game, but on something of a retrieval mission after disappointing at Punchestown last May. That poor display followed an heroic effort behind Long Run in the Gold Cup, and a brave display when off colour in the King George. The easier track here might just play to his strengths (he travelled much the best in the Gold Cup) and he will appreciate the good ground more than anything else. This might be his last race so all fingers crossed for a bold display.

Long Run - The new kid on the block after winning both the King George and the Gold Cup last season. Still only 6 and it is perfectly plausible for there to be more improvement to come. Reported to have grown over the summer and he will be a tough nut to crack if fit enough for his seasonal reappearance. This is a trial for the major targets ahead but he is sure to be ready to do himself justice.

Pure Faith - Ran Albertas Run close in the Old Roan with Master Minded back in 3rd but faces an even tougher assignment here. Looks outclassed.

Time For Rupert - A hot favourite for the RSA Chase at the Festival but could only finish 5th after breaking a blood vessel. Showed he might be up to this level with a good effort in 2nd in the Charlie Hall last month and expected to improve for the run. Doubtful that the good ground and sharper track will bring his stamina into play.

Weird Al - A promising novice for Ian Williams a couple of seasons back, but subsequently disappointed in the Hennessy and the Gold Cup last season. Has since joined Donald McCain and won the Charlie Hall in good style. Has always promised to be smart but this is another step up and a career best is required.

Conclusion - A top class renewal, and, with just the 6 runners going to post, I think the betting opportunities are limited. Before Rubi Light and Nacarat were taken out, the prospect of three places made the race an extremely attractive betting proposition. I would be happy to take Long Run on in that scenario, but as the race has shaped up I think it is best left alone from a betting point of view. I think the Charlie Hall form might prove to be a little suspect, and, I would therefore be inclined to side with Diamond Harry. I put him up for the Charlie Hall but he suffered a knock in the racecourse stables. That should not be a concern here and he would probably be my selection against the favourite. I also think that Kauto Star has a decent chance of running a big race and it would be no surprise at all to see him put in a bold show. That said it would be disappointing if Long Run was unable to start the season with a win. He looked very good last year and would expect him to take this before going on to more glory in the big prizes later in the year. If he drifted to much bigger than even money then I might be tempted to get involved. Anything odds on and I think he is best left alone. 

As the race stands, it is one to enjoy but not one to bet on. I will be cheering Kauto Star home, hoping that he can justify continuing his quite brilliant career, or at least bow out in respectable fashion. Conditions are in his favour, and it is by no means beyond the realms of possibility that the fairytale victory might just come true. What a great moment it would be if he could roll back the clock for one final time. Here's hoping.

Cheltenham Review

Three top quality days have been and gone at Cheltenham. It is now time to reflect on the action and search for the valuable pointers for the season ahead.

Friday

I fancied Tanks For That at the Festival when he disappointed in the Grand Annual and I was tempted to back him here but kept my money in my pocket on this occasion. In the end he ran out a convincing winner after looking in trouble rounding the home turn. The disappointment was Crack Away Jack but I do think he is a horse worth following. He is lovely stamp of horse and I cannot help but feel that there is plenty more to come. He made a bad mistake, having jumped well, at a crucial stage and that put paid to his chances. He also looked a little outpaced but kept on in pleasing fashion. Fortunately, Nicholls had said he might appreciate further so I didn't back him in the end. I must say I was very tempted because he really was a lovely horse to look at. My immediate thought was that he would be one for the December Gold Cup next month. This run should put him spot on and the step up in trip should see him to better effect. He simply must have a race in him off of 142 and he remains firmly in the notebook for the time being.

I was really looking forward to the 2m Novice hurdle. I was impressed with Prospect Wells at Chepstow and fancied him to make it two from two over the sticks. In the end he just went down in a super battle with Steps To Freedom. Despite the steady pace it was pleasing that the right horses came to the fore, with Ericht, a smart Bumper performer last season, filling 3rd place, nicely clear of the remainder. The impression was that both could be smart and look really decent prospects for the winter ahead. I am sure that they will take high rank in the Novice Hurdling division because this seemed a race of considerable depth.

The big clash was the last race on the card. I made sue that i had a good look at this exciting bunch of Novice Chasers in the pre-parade ring and they looked well up to scratch. The first thing to say is that I can easily see why the Twiston-Davies Camp is so keen on Sybarite. He is a big and powerful, and a gorgeous looker. However, he continues to be a disappointment on the track. I think he will probably need softer ground and a longer trip to be seen to best effect. Whilst he is a stunning horse, i don't seem him as the successor to Imperial Commander, certainly on the evidence i have seen on the track. Grand Crus looks to have grown since last year and he looked far better balanced than last season. Champion Court still looked a little raw, as did Cue Card. They were without doubt a decent bunch and it was obvious that this was a collection of talented animals. 

In the race, the departure of Cue Card was a disappointment because it left plenty of questions still be to be answered. He still looks 'novicey' and that must be a worry for his followers. His jumping technique is still a little ragged and he will need a fair bit of schooling to bring up to scratch in that department. He is clearly decent but i get the feeling that he might just fall short of top class over fences too. In contrast, Grand Crus looks the smart recruit we had hoped for. I admit that he jumped better than I had anticipated but I still stand by my comments. He jumped well in the main but I still think he might be prone to be odd error. The one time he was wrong, he got away with it after a guessy jump at the ditch. There can be no doubt that this was an impressive display against some useful horses. He travelled strongly and powered up the hill as Champion Court came to challenge. He will be a force to be reckoned with but I still have that question mark in my mind over his jumping. When he is tired, they are racing and he's being challenged I can see it coming under pressure. I may be wrong, and if I am, he has every chance of going right to the top. Champion Court looks a good young chaser too and he will be seen at his best when he steps up to 3m. Zaynar also ran a good race and he might be recapturing his old enthusiasm though is still likely to find it tough in the very top races.

I must say that I was a little surprised to see Grand Crus shortened to as short as 4/1 for the RSA. He is a worthy favourite, no doubt about it, and this was an impressive fencing debut, but I would still rather have Peddlers Cross for the Arkle, especially at a bigger price. His jumping at Bangor was right out of the top drawer and i am very excited to see him return to action in the coming weeks.

Saturday

The Juvenile Hurdle featured the British debut of the highly regarded Hinterland. He already had a facile Listed Hurdle success in his native France and a tall reputation to his name. In the race he did not disappoint. This was a very good field with Ozeta (Listed winner over hurdles and on the flat), Secret Edge (Listed Hurdle winner) and Hollow Tree (facile debut hurdle winner) all in opposition. Hinterland travelled very strongly and jumped well throughout the race and ran out a comfortable winner. The margin of victory was only 3 lengths but i think he was value for more than that. The reason being that he travelled far too strongly for his own good and was understandably a little tired in the closing stages as a consequence, though he stayed on in really pleasing fashion. He will need to learn to settle a little better, but with the maestro Ruby Walsh on his back, he has every chance of doing so. He is now a best priced 10/1 for the Triumph Hurdle and i thought that on this evidence those quotes were fair, and possibly not as stingy as they might have been. He is certainly very exciting for the future.

In the Paddy Power Gold Cup Great Endeavour from the David Pipe team atoned for last seasons disappointment with a ready victory. He was a clear second favourite behind Long Run in last year's renewal but could only finish 6th. 12 months on he was always travelling powerfully and fairly bounded up the hill to score by 7 lengths. Quantitativeeasing and Divers, the 1st two home in the Centenary Novices Chase at the Festival, filled 2nd and 3rd spots respectively from a few pounds out of the handicap. 4th was the virtually unmentioned Nicholls runner Aerial who ran a pleasing race without ever threatening the leaders. 

There were a few disappointment stories in the race, none more so than Mon Parrain. He never jumped with the fluency that had so defined his two previous performances on these shores. To my eye his effort was too bad to be true and it will be interesting to see whether anything comes to light. He cannot have become a bad horse overnight and it might be that a step up to 3m round a flat track will see him to best effect. I was convinced that he would be travelling powerfully down the hill but in the end he was struggling early in the back straight. This was hugely disappointing and he has questions to answer. That said, i would not be writing him off just yet.

Wishfull Thinking started favourite after a huge gamble in the morning. He jumped boldly out in front and was probably always doing too much. He folded entering the straight to finish 6th, a fair way off the winner. Phillip Hobbs reported that he may have just needed the run. He is another who is worth keeping on side. His best form was away from Cheltenham last year and it might be that a sharper flat track will allow him to perform to his best. He does appear to have plenty of pace so it will be interesting to see which route connections take with him. I wouldn't rule out a tilt at the Champion Chase if he were mine.

My own fancy for the race was Noble Alan at a tasty looking 20/1. He had travelled supremely well at Market Rasen last time, only to unseat 2 from home. He had also been moving easily when falling 3 out in the December Gold Cup last year. And, unfortunately, it was more of the same this time too. He looked to be holding every chance having made stylish progress to close on the leaders before unseating 4 out after a bad mistake at the ditch. I remain convinced that he can win a race of this nature. He is one for the December Gold Cup if allowed to take his chance.

The concluding 3m Novice Chase produced a terrific race. In the end it was the Nicholls/Walsh combination who came out on top courtesy of a game performance from Join Together. His jumping was excellent, barring one mistake early in the back straight for the final time. In a ride of pure brilliance, Walsh allowed his mount time to recover before gradually feeling his way back into the race to lead entering the straight. He kept on well and found plenty from the back of the last to win by a length and a half. Nicholls suggested that he will be suited by soft ground and a trip, and, on this evidence, i wouldn't disagree. He might be one for the 4m Chase at the Festival if the ground is slower than good, and one for the Nationals in years to come. Restless Harry jumped poorly and paid for it in 3rd. He is another decent animal but i think will just fall short of top class over fences, especially if his jumping does not improve. He may revert to hurdles after this effort.

Sunday

Last year's Supreme winner Al Ferof was a warm order to win his chasing debut after swerving a potential clash with Peddlers Cross at Bangor last week. The reason for that was so Ruby could take the ride. He jumped a little over-brave in the early stages but really warmed to his task as the race progressed and looked very professional by the end. He was hard on the steel and ran out a very easy winner. You could not have asked for any more than this and he will be a threat to all. Nicholls had previously suggested that he might be suited by a step up in trip but in his post-race interview he seems to state that the Arkle was very much the target. 

Gauvain provided a jumping exhibition to take the Shloer Chase for the second year running. Woolcombe Folly looked very lethargic and he is probably best avoided until he shows some sparkle. He is now saddled with a hefty handicap mark and is possibly not quite up to championship class making him very tricky to place. This seemed a perfect opportunity, and was his 'target' according to Nicholls, making his defeat, and more particularly the manner of defeat, most disappointing. The winner took this race in good style 12 months ago but failed to build on that promise. He looked good here once again so hopefully he can build on this performance this season.

The Greatwood was wide open on paper and so it proved in the race, with any number holding a chance jumping the last. Olofi and Moon Dice were arguably a little unlucky as they found themselves short of room, but the way Brampour stormed up the hill under Harry Derham must make it doubtful that either could have won. After winning at Ascot i thought he may have left his chance there but he improved again and seems to be progressing rapidly. He might not be quite up to Champion Hurdle class but is surely worth a place in some of the trial races to see where he stands. He is sure to be rated in the mid to high 150s after this and that will leave him with another 10lbs improvement to make to challenge the very best. He might be capable of that, he might not. What is certain is that he has given connections two fantastic days this season already so anything more must be considered a massive bonus.

Walsh was seen at his best in the following Intermediate Handicap Hurdle. This race was won by Grand Crus 12 months ago and this time Rangitoto took the honours. He looks every inch the chaser in the making and he is surely just marking time before tackling fences. He looked a little outpaced on good ground over 2m5f but tackled the hill with relish to finish stronger than anything. 3m will suit him better and there is sure to be more to come.

Fingal Bay maintained both his unbeaten record and his growing reputation in the 2m4f Novice Hurdle. He travelled well before a mistake at the second last slightly upset his rhythm. Even with that blunder he powered up the hill to win going away by 3 and a half lengths. He is exciting and looks sure to figure in either the Neptune of the Albert Bartlett at the Festival in March.

The well touted Montbazon was ultimately a little disappointing in the concluding Bumper. He travelled well but found little up the hill to finish 3rd. He just failed to quicken when asked and whether that is down to the hill or being outpaced i'm not sure. He is still and exciting prospect but i am sure the King Team were hoping for a better showing than that.

Conclusions

Some excellent action, and in particular a feast of exciting novices. You would like to think that there will be at least a couple of Festival challengers amongst them. 

Two To Follow:

In defeat, i think Crack Away Jack is one to take from the meeting. He jumped well, apart from his one mistake at a crucial time, and travelled as if a step up in trip would suit. He kept on well and was probably closing at the death. There must surely be a decent 2m4f Handicap Chase to be won with him off a mark of 142. 

In victory, i was most impressed with Hinterland. He is already something of a hype horse but the way he travelled through the race was most taking. His jumping was electric and he is an exciting prospect for chasing in a few years time, but, for the time being, he looks well capable of following in the footsteps of Celestial Halo and Zarakandar as Triumph Hurdle winners for Champion Trainer Paul Nicholls.

Greatwood Hurdle

Two excellent days action at Cheltenham already and a terrific card on Sunday to finish the feast of nicely.

The undoubted highlight is the 2m Greatwood Handicap Hurdle. This race often throws up a Champion Hurdle contender and this year looks no different with some decent types lurking near the top of the weights. 

Sanctuaire - The services of Ruby Walsh appear crucial as he is 0/5 without and 3/5 with the Irishman on top. And after a truly masterful ride on Join Together in the last today it is easy to see why. He is talented but something of an enigma. If he's on a going day he could run a nice race.

Topolski - Won the 2m Novice Hurdle at the Aintree Festival but lost his unbeaten record in fairly dismal style at Ascot first time up this year. I thought the form of the Aintree race was probably not the best and i think he is probably in above his level on 150. That said he was fancied to turn into a Champion contender by the stable so might bounce back.

Brampour - A decent juvenile last year and improved again to win at Ascot on his seasonal reappearance. Harry Derham keeps the ride and takes off 7lbs here. But he has a 10lb hike in the weights to deal with and whilst he is improving i fancy that might prove beyond him in a race such as this.

Nearby - Was in terrific form last summer but has failed to fire since. Tried over fences last year but returns to hurdles this season having failed to win over the bigger obstacles. Handicapper still has him and would prefer quicker ground.

Jack Cool - Makes the trip from Ireland and  comes here in good form having finished in the first two in three consecutive handicap hurdles. Then finished 3rd behind Steps To Freedom (who won on Friday) last time and that should put him spot on. Climbing the weights but progressing and has the services of Champion Jockey AP McCoy.

Moon Dice - Ultra progressive and took the competitive Galway Hurdle in good style, with Champion Hurdle fancy The Real Article back in 4th. Up a stone in the weights courtesy of that success but stable think he might make up into a Champion contender. 

Son Of Flicka - Has been running over much further, including when 9th of 17 over 3m on his seasonal debut. Ran a cracker to be beaten a 1/2 length in the Martin Pipe by the unbeaten Sir Des Champs. Would probably prefer further than the 2m he faces here.

Third Intention - A smart juvenile last year and was well fancied in the Ascot race won by Brampour. Ultimately finished a disappointing 6th beaten 18 lengths and he will need to improve considerably for the run to figure here.

Kumbeshwar - A terrific warrior last year, finishing 2nd at all three major Festivals. His consistency might make life tough for him but still entitled to be on the upgrade. 8th at Ascot earlier in the season and he will need an awful lot more to take this. Reported to take a few races to hit his stride so he should strip fitter for the run.

Via Galilei - Consistent horse who has been well placed in a few of the top handicaps. Beat Pateese in the Imperial Cup behind Alarazi and that form seems to be working out well. Good run at Ascot last time and comes from a stable that know how to win this.

The Betchworth Kid - Well fancied for a few of these competitive 2m hurdles last season but never found himself in the firing line. He was perpetually unlucky, or unsuited by conditions, but i think it might just be that he isn't good enough. Big ask and need to return to form.

Inspector Clouseau - From the stable of Willie Mullins and his runners must be respected. He has been in good form of late but seems to have suffered with the British handicapper allotting him 9lbs above his Irish rating, quite a bit more than the other Irish challengers. 

Viva Colonia - Has been progressive but a disappointing run last time to overcome. Also up in the weights now and it might just be that the handicapper has caught up with him.

Palawi - Another decent juvenile last year but found out when falling in the Triumph. Is better weighted than many of his contemparies here and a big show not out of the question after a decent enough performance last time. The form of that race has worked out exceptionally well but he needs to improve to take this.

Oldrik - Hasn't run over hurdles for over a year but dropped a few lbs to compensate. This is a tough assignment after such a long absence.Good return on the flat when 2nd in September.

A Media Luz - A very smart flat performer and a decent juvenile but there appears a lot more to come when she learns to settle. She travelled strongly at Ascot before fading to finish 3rd. She would hold every chance if she settles well. However, i'm not sure the hill will play to her strengths (not sure she stays 2m well) though a win wouldn't surprise me in the slightest because i am sure she is capable of far better than her mark.

Pateese - 3rd in the Imperial Cup before disappointing at Aintree but returned in style when hacking up at Sandown last weekend. This comes plenty soon enough but he is 10lbs well in carrying only a penalty here. Connections have an excellent record in the race.

Abergavenny - Unbeaten in 3 hurdles starts but this is a whole lot tougher.  A decent performer on the flat and this mark might be within his reach. Trainer had Bothy run 2nd in this 12 months ago with a similar profile. Respected but will need to improve.

Olofi - 5th in this race 12 months ago and races here from 2lbs lower. Had a warm up run in France and he might be one to go well. A career best required though.

Andhaar - Well beaten since stepping up to handicap company and looks to face a stiff task here.

Eightybarackstreet - Going in the right direction but will need to step up on anything he has sown to figure here. Ran in a good race last time but more needed.

Ultimate - Won his Novice Chase, beating subsequent winner Australia Day. That may have been a little fortunate but there was nothing lucky about a recent 7 length flat romp. He seems to be improving and it is interesting that Brian Ellison reverts to hurdles for this good prize.

Harry Tricker - Poor reappearance to put behind him and reported to have lost a little confidence since being tried over fences last season. Was 2nd to Khyber Kim in this race two years ago off of 1lb lower and if returning to that form would hold every chance.

Alazan - Been running well, including when a pleasing 3rd in a handicap at the course in October. Would probably prefer a sounder surface since much of his form is on good or faster.

Conclusion

Another competitive race with any number holding claims to this big prize. Moon Dice is well thought of and he is entitled to go close. At a bigger price Ultimate could be one to run a big race. Backing both EW will hopefully get you a run for your money.

Paddy Power Gold Cup

Poquelin - Big weight but for good reason. He has placed 2nd, 1st, 5th, 1st in the last two runnings of the Paddy Power and the December Gold Cup. These 2m5f handicaps seem to play to his strengths and he is dangerous to rule out with David Prichard taking 7lbs off his back. Might be massive EW value.

Wishfull Thinking - One of the top novices of last season running 2nd in the Jewson at the Festival before going on to record impressive victories at Aintree and Punchestown. Big weight but he might well be up to the task. Conditions should suit and trainer appears bullish.

Oiseau De Nuit - Good handicapper who won the Grand Annual at the Festival. Steps up in trip and possibly faces a big ask from high in the weights. Not a total no hoper after a decent reappearance and Brendan Powell claiming 10lbs.

Loosen My Load - The big hope for Ireland and a worthy challenger. 3rd behind Wishfull Thinking in the Jewson but gets a 11lb pull in the weights for a 5 length beating. Form at the course is strong and the trip and ground should be in his favour. Big chance but my concern is that he doesn't seem to find a lot off the bridle.

Mon Parrain - Probably one of the most talked about horses over the summer months and his reappearance is eagerly anticipated. He has a tall reputation to live up to but his jumping was exquisite in both starts last season, including over the national fences at Aintree. Paul Nicholls seeks to break his duck in this race and he must hold every chance. One concern is the way he stopped at Aintree when seeming certain to score. Plenty of help from on top with Ruby Walsh doing the steering.

Great Endeavour - Second favourite to Long Run in this race 12 months ago but finished a disappointing 6th. Improved when 2nd to Poquelin next time and was in the process of running a decent race when falling 2 out at the Festival over 3m. Sure to be primed to try and continue the Pipe tradition in this race and folly to rule him out.

Dave's Dream - A terrific record when fresh and he comes straight here for his seasonal reappearance. He won at this meeting 12 months ago over 2m and then disappointed over 2m5f next time. The trip is a small query but he is a danger to all with his stable firing on all cylinders at the moment.

Holmwood Legend - Remarkably progressive for a 10yo last season and finished the season 2nd behind Poquelin in a valuable handicap at the course after winning at the Festival. Big hike in the weights to overcome and you just get the feeling that there might be a few handicapped to beat him in this.

The Giant Bolster - Pricewise selection antepost and it is not hard to see why. Is unbeaten in chases when completing but has failed to do so on 3/5 occasions. Has received tuition from jumping guru Yogi Breisner and he is dangerous with a clear round. Suspicion he might want further.

Finger OnThe Pulse - Largely disappointing but he did manange to take the Galway Plate in 2010. Since then he has run poorly in the main, but did win first time up this year. Others look to hold stronger claims.

Calgary Bay - 2nd over course and distance to Wishfull Thinking in January and weighted to exact revenge. However that rival is improving quickly and i suspect that the form will be confirmed. Looks like he might want further nowadays but a consistent performer who could easily run into a place.

Araldur - Choc Thornton has got down to 10 stone to ride him and that must be a tip in itself. Ran well first time up when chasing home Fistral Beach. May have finished closer because he was hampered there. Sure to improve for the run and looks to hold a decent chance. 

Noble Alan - Has promised to win one of these handicaps a number of times but has met with trouble on each occasion. Fell when looking a certain winner at Market Rasen and tipped up 3 out when still travelling strongly in the December version last year. I am sure that he has one of these races in him and this could be the one with conditions in his favour. With a clear round he is entitled to go close.

Quantitiveeasing - 2nd in the Centenary Novices Handicap at the Festival bit i question the strength of that form. Trainer is in hot form and he is one capable of improvement but might prefer it a little softer.

Swincombe Rock - Trainer has won this twice in the last three years and quietly fancies this one. Out of the handicap here and possibly wants a little further.

Aerial - Another for the Champion Trainer and right at the bottom of the weights (4lbs out of the handicap proper). Won impressively on his first start in this country and that blew his handicap mark. Tough ask in this and others from the stable are preferred.

Tullamore Dew - 3rd in the Festival race won by Divers. He is out of the handicap but one open to progression. Might prefer a little more juice underfoot.

Divers - Festival winner and has followed the same path the stable took with L'Antartique who took this race a few years back. Diabolical reappearance when reportedly failing to handle the soft ground at Carlisle. He will have conditions more to suit here and his trainer is a renowned shrewd operator. Not without a chance but his seasonal debut was too bad to be true and there are sure to be questions asked if he wins this.

Billie Magern - The ride of Sam Twiston Davies, triumphant last year, and a good winner of a handicap here last month. Tends to be seen to best effect when allowed to dominate and he won't get that luxury in this. From out of the handicap others are preferred.

Fine Parchment - Second at Aintree first time up this season but off a career high mark, and from 6lbs wrong at the weights, i'm not convinced he has the necessary progression to take a hand in this competitive heat.

Conclusion

As competitive as ever and it is difficult to rule anything out with real confidence. This tends to go to a second season chaser with Grade 1 potential and both Wishfull Thinking and Loosen My Load fit into that category. Mon Parrain sits in the 'could be anything' category and, if he is as well handicapped as the reports suggest, he could turn this into a procession. However, he is priced accordingly. There are any number with chances but if forced to take a chance i think i would side with Noble Alan to finally take a hand in one of these races. he is available at 20/1 and i think that is a more than fair price. Mon Parrain is available at 5/1 in places having touched 3/1 this morning. If anyone fancies him then i would recommend a back-to-lay bet. Take the 5/1 because i can easily see him coming swinging down the hill with Ruby sitting motionless and consequently trading at a very short price. The question is what he will find up the hill and you can sit and find out safe in the knowledge that you win whatever the outcome. I hope he can do it because he could be very exciting but he is a short price for a race of this nature.

For those fancying a bet on the race i should draw your attention to the following offer from Ladbrokes - http://www.ladbrokes.com/ppgc/. A terrific deal and well worth taking advantage of.

Open Meeting Overview

Three days of top quality action at Cheltenham this week really signal the start of the jumps season proper. There will be big names out in force at Prestbury Park throughout the weekend. It is action that must not be missed because there will be Festival clues a plenty.

Friday

The undoubted highlight is the final Novice Chase over 2m4f. Cue Card bids to follow up from his fencing debut success but he will face a tough opponent in the shape of the David Pipe trained Grand Crus. Also in the mix are the well regarded Champion Court, Dualla Lord, Sybarite, Vino Griego and Zaynar. As far as i'm concerned the contest is spoiled from a betting point of view by the fact that there are only 7 runners. With just the two places up for grabs the EW value is limited. I think Champion Court is a promising chaser and i think he would have been a decent EW bet against the front two if there were 3 places available. As it is, i think it may be best to sit back and watch. It should be a terrific encounter.

The only Graded action on the card is the 2m Novice Hurdle. This features the hugely exciting Steps To Freedom from the stable of Jessica Harrington. He won the Aintree Champion Bumper in good style from the highly regarded Montbazon (more of him later). He has since made a seamless transition to hurdles, taking a Maiden Hurdle and a Grade 3 against more experienced rivals. He should prove a tough nut to crack in this heat. Leading the challenge is Prospect Wells from Champion Trainer Paul Nicholls' stable. He was a Listed performer on the flat, and whilst it has been reported that he wasn't a natural over the obstacles at first, he was convincing winner first time up at Chepstow last month. Ericht makes his hurdling debut in this and he is reported to be one of Nicky Henderson's better hurdling prospects. He will need to be to take this against some rivals with valuable experience under their belt.

Earlier in the card the smart hurdler Crack Away Jack makes his debut for Paul Nicholls. He lost his way a little last season but if he returned to his best hurdles form (rated 163) he would run away with this off a mark of 142. Hopefully he can return to winning ways here.

Garde Champetre will be considered banker material by many in the Glenfarclas Cross Country Chase. The fact that this is a non-handicap race gives him a huge advantage. He is comfortably the highest rated and will take all the beating if he's on song.

Saturday

The big race is the Paddy Power Gold Cup featuring a maximum field of 20. As competitive as ever there are any number holding strong claims and it is difficult to rule out any with complete confidence. I have done a separate post for the big one.

The stellar Saturday card starts with the first big Juvenile Hurdle of the season. 12 months ago Sam Winner ran away with this contest before going on to finish 4th in the Triumph in March. This time Hinterland (currently 20/1 second favourite for the Triumph) represents Paul Nicholls. He already has a Listed hurdle success in France to his name and he is well thought of. It would be no surprise to see him take this on the road to bigger things down the line. That said he has plenty of decent types in opposition, including Listed winner Secret Edge, so is unlikely to have things all his own way.

Another interesting contender for the Walsh/Nicholls combination is Oscargo in the 3m Listed Handicap Hurdle. He beat better fancied stablemate Harry The Viking first time up last season. That rival has since gone on to score in a Maiden Hurdle at Chepstow last month and it is interesting firstly that Nicholls pitches him into handicap company and that Walsh gets down to the minimum weight to ride him. Assuming he doesn't carry overweight it will be Ruby's lowest riding weight in the past twelve months. If he makes the effort you can be sure that he is expecting the reward. As you would expect it is a competitive race and there will any number with chances.

The last race on the card looks another filled with chasing potential. Restless Harry is set to make his fencing debut after taking the John Smith's Hurdle at Wetherby in impressive fashion. Join Together bids to get his chasing career back on track after hitting the deck first time up. Saint Are, a Grade 1 winner at Aintree over hurdles tries to get break his maiden over fences after a promising second to Champion Court at Aintree.

Sunday

A superb Novice Chase starts the days action with Al Ferof set to make his fencing debut under Ruby Walsh. What will take him on is uncertain at this stage but it is sure to be an informative race nevertheless.

The Nicholls/Walsh combo will be hoping to make it a quickfire double as they team up with Tataniano in the Shloer Chase over 2m. He looked right back to his best when running away with a handicap on his seasonal reappearance at Chepstow and he must be fancied to take this provided he is in the same form. Stablemate Woolcombe Folly is probably best of the remainder but was only 3rd, admittedly giving weight, in the Chepstow race and it is hard to envisage him turning the form around without Tataniano disappointing. It must be remembered that Tataniano has been something of an enigma and has been prone to run the odd stinker in the past, including when only 3rd in this race 12 months ago when well fancied. He must have good ground and that looks to be in his favour on this occasion. The progressive West With The Wind and last seasons winner Gauvain look best of the rest.

Next up is the Greatwood, the second big handicap of the weekend. This race can quite often throw up a Champion Hurdle contender, as it did with Menorah 12 months ago. Full preview on a separate thread.

The next race is a little tricky to decipher at this stage with the final declarations not yet made. It looks open with a few progressive types looking to keep their runs going.

Fingal Bay hits the track for the second time this season after making a striking impression in the Grade 2 Persian War Novices Hurdle at Chepstow. He is held in high regard and after that impressive victory it is easy to see why. Who will take him on is an unknown but you can be sure that whoever beats him will be very smart.

The final race is the Listed Bumper. Alan King has saved his highly regarded Montbazon for this race. He found only Steps To Freedom too good in the Aintree Bumper but that rival has done the form no harm since, triumphing in two hurdle races (including a Grade 3 against older horses). Those two came a little clear from the rest and it would be a disappointment if Montbazon could not take this prize en route to taking high rank in the novice hurdling division later in the season.